Formation of Polyethylene Glycol Particles Using a Low-Temperature Supercritical Assisted Atomization Process

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Pharmaceutical Technology

Background:

• Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a versatile polymer with applications in drug delivery.
• Controlling particle size and morphology is crucial for effective drug formulations.
• Supercritical fluid technology offers precise control over particle formation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the preparation of polyethylene glycol (PEG) microparticles using low-temperature supercritical assisted atomization (LTSAA).
• To determine the key process parameters influencing PEG particle size and characteristics.
• To evaluate the potential of LTSAA-produced PEG particles as carriers for controlled drug delivery.

Main Methods:

• Utilized low-temperature supercritical assisted atomization (LTSAA) with carbon dioxide and acetone.
• Systematically varied PEG solution concentration, CO2 flow rate, and temperature parameters.
• Analyzed particle size, morphology, and crystallinity using techniques like X-ray and differential scanning calorimetry.

Main Results:

• Achieved spherical, non-aggregated PEG particles with a mean size of 1.7-3.2 µm.
• Identified optimal conditions: low PEG concentration, low precipitator temperature, and low PEG molecular weight.
• Demonstrated that LTSAA-treated PEG exhibits reduced crystallinity, controllable by precipitator temperature.

Conclusions:

• LTSAA is an effective method for producing fine PEG microparticles.
• Optimized process parameters enable control over particle size and properties.
• LTSAA-derived PEG microparticles show promise for developing advanced drug-controlled formulations.